Copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine complexed with Cu2+); endogenous matrikine; cosmetic ingredient name Copper Tripeptide-1
GHK-Cu
Unclearaka Copper Tripeptide-1, GHK-copper, glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine-copper, Cu-GHK, prezatide copper acetate
Mechanism
GHK-Cu signals dermal fibroblasts to increase collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, modulates matrix metalloproteinases, and in gene-array studies shifts expression of a large fraction of human genes (reported ~30-60%) toward a regenerative profile; it also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and copper-delivery roles. Mechanism is comparatively well studied in vitro and in skin models, though clinical efficacy evidence remains modest.
Regulatory Status by Region
- United States (FDA)Not an approved drug; topical form regulated as a cosmetic ingredient (Copper Tripeptide-1); injectable GHK-Cu was on the 503A Category 2 list (2023) and removed in April 2026 after nominations were withdrawn.
- Australia (TGA)Permitted topically as a cosmetic ingredient; no approved medicinal (e.g., injectable) product.
- European Union (EMA)Permitted cosmetic ingredient (INCI: Copper Tripeptide-1); no medicinal marketing authorisation.
- WADANot specifically named on the Prohibited List.
Key Studies
- Regenerative and Protective Actions of the GHK-Cu Peptide in the Light of the New Gene Data (Pickart & Margolina, Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2018;19(7):1987; PMID 29986520; DOI 10.3390/ijms19071987)
- GHK Peptide as a Natural Modulator of Multiple Cellular Pathways in Skin Regeneration (BioMed Research International 2015; PMCID PMC4508379)
- The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide (Aging Pathobiol Ther 2022; PMID 35083444)